Several types of insulation can be used in pole barns. The type you choose will depend on the climate in your region, how you intend to use your pole barn, and your budget.
Blown in foam insulation is the most effective way to insulate a pole barn. It seals air gaps during the expansion process. Blown in insulation is the most expensive type.
Loose fill is less expensive than blown foam. It is effective, but not as effective as expanding foam. Loose fill fills in air gaps, but it does not seal them.
Fiberglass batt insulation comes in a range of R-values. It is easy to cut and use to fill air gaps. Fiberglass batt insulation does not seal air gaps but does minimize air penetration. R30 and R19 are recommended for the walls and roof.
Condensation blankets provide minimal R-value and prevent indoor condensation. Double bubble radiant barrier insulation and 2-inch vinyl-backed post frame insulation are used. Double bubble insulation is used in horse barns and garages that do not require full-time heat.
Pole barn insulation blankets that are 93 inches wide and fit between 8-foot on center posts with no thermal break can achieve an R-value of 19. They are recommended for buildings that are heated full-time and are easy to install.
Improper installation can reduce insulation’s R-value by 40 percent.
Here are some things to know before you install your insulation:
- Wet or compressed insulation loses R-value.
- To achieve the maximum R-value, there must be airspace between the insulation and the adjacent material.
- Published R-values can be misleading. Insulation will have a different R-value when used in a roof than it would have when used in a wall. The R-value for downward heat flow is different than the R-value for upward heat flow.
- A vapor barrier is required for metal siding and roofing. Proper placement depends on location.
- The type and size of windows and doors affect the performance of insulation.
- R-values are advertised for conduction, radiation, and convection energy savings. Radiant R-values are unrelated to non-radiant insulation needs.